Japanese boxer Yuki Ishizumi has decided not to accept a WBF Youth Asia pacific featherweight title fight with undefeated Brayd “The Great White” Smith at Rumours International on March 8.

Ishizumi was poised to sign the deal this week after verbally accepting the offer. However, it is a cut suffered in Ishizumi’s recent Thailand championship victory on New years eve that has finally caused him to decline the offer.

“Initially, Ishizumi’s camp thought that the cut wouldn’t be a problem as the fight was 10 weeks away,” said Brendon Smith, trainer and Manager of Brayd Smith.

“However it appears to be deeper and not healing as quick as they first thought and they feel it would affect his preparation and unfortunately they have decided not to take the fight”.

Whilst disappointed, Brayd Smith says he does not blame his Japanese rival.

“That’s boxing. I was excited to fight the Thailand champ but this is a tough sport and you need to be 100% going into a fight and if they feel the cut will affect his preparation then I respect his decision.”

Smith will still contest the WBF Youth Asia Pacific Featherweight title come March 8 as the search for an opponent continues.

“We know Brayd will be in one corner for this title on March 8” said Brendon Smith

“I am currently in negotiations with another fighter from Japan and one from Indonesia who meet the criteria to fight for this title and we expect to have an opponent locked in very soon”.

“The Great White” Brayd Smith’s fight for the WBF Youth Asia Pacific title will be the main event of “Smithy Brings the Big fights 3” card scheduled for March 8 at Rumours International in Toowoomba.

Also on the card is local cruiserweights Josh Webb Vs Dale Ryan, English Import Darren Askew Vs Brett John Smith as well as undefeated prospect Kris George and “Iron” Will Young.

Tickets for the event are currently on sale at Smithy’s Gym in Toowoomba at $75 for Ringside and $45 for general and as a special offer Smithy’s Gym is giving away a 5 day gym trial valued at $75 for every ringside ticket sold.